Nevus or moles

What are nevi or moles?

Nevi or moles are pigmented lesions of frequent appearance in children. They usually appear during childhood or adolescence with no known cause, grow with the patients or tend to darken. They do not usually generate complications but it is important to be checked by a dermatologist to rule out a possible melanoma.

Most frequent types of nevus:

  • Melanocytic nevus, the common mole.
  • Congenital nevus, moles or birthmarks.
  • Dysplastic nevus, large moles that have an irregular shape and have more than one color.
  • Nevus spitz, moles that look like bumps, usually pink in color.

What are the symptoms?

Nevus or moles should not present symptoms, since when they are harmless they are only detected by their appearance. When a nevus hurts, itches or bleeds, it may be a melanoma and the dermatologist should inspect it and in many cases remove it to rule out a health problem.

Causes of nevi

Moles or nevi occur when melanocytes, the pigment-producing cells of the skin, grow in clusters. Sun exposure influences their appearance and their shape and size. Normally people with fairer and more sensitive skin have more moles than darker skin, and should protect them from the sun.

Can it be prevented?

Monitoring sun exposure can prevent the appearance of some types of nevi.

What does the treatment consist of?

The dermatologist specialist should monitor the patient’s moles, checking all those that change color and shape, or cause pain, itching or bleeding to the patient. In case of any of these symptoms, the dermatologist may require the removal of the nevus to prevent a possible melanoma. This operation is performed on an outpatient basis.